A Ciaté Giveaway

Every girl loves beauty products; especially free ones! That's why we are pleased to announce our very first giveaway is a Ciaté Velvet Manicure Set! If you aren't familiar with Ciaté products, you should be. They are known for nail polishes with textured finishes and dynamic colors. A $20 value, this set includes a 0.45 oz Paint Pot Nail Polish, Crushed Velvet Powder, Little Black Brush and a Clear plastic tray. We're excited to hear from you and see who wins!

There are a few ways to enter. If you choose to enter through posting on the blog, be sure to comment directly on the blog post at the bottom of this page. For extra entries, tweet each day about the contest and where you plan on wearing the nail polish.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Boyish Charm

Sweater (similar) I Shirt I Jeans I Shoes I Bag I Earrings I Watch & Bracelets: Alex and Ani I Spikes

Boyfriend jeans are the perfect way to achieve a playful menswear look. While you can go for a complete menswear outfit with a blazer and loafers, adding girly pieces offsets the masculinity and creates a charming pairing. Even though this cool combination consists of a button down shirt, the overlay of a sequined sweater top gives it the perfect balance of both styles. An over-sized watch completes the look.

Tips on how you can achieve a look that is stolen from the boys:

- Mix girly pieces (sequins, colorful tops, feminine shoes) with one or two boyish ones (boyfriend jeans, oversized watch, button down shirt).

- If you pick a masculine top, choose a feminine bottom. And vice versa.

- Even the slightest details like a simple oxford shoe can imitate menswear.

- If you choose boyfriend jeans that are slouchy, offset them with a structured top.

Photos By: Beth Carter

A Timely Statement Piece

This week we are featuring pocket watches from the Etsy shop, Ingredients for Lovely. Accessorizing with long necklaces is trendy, and with these long chains you can look cute and tell time. What we love about this shop is there are so many different kinds of watches and almost all of them are under $20. Wear one of these timely pieces with a looser blouse or dress to add a touch of charm.

Photos by: Kayla Danielle

Buttons & Brushes for Samii

 

Meet Samii, a 14 year old Gilmore Girls fan from Kansas City, Mo. She is down to earth, adorable, and wise beyond her years. When I asked her to share her thoughts on modesty she spoke with grace and clarity saying, “Modesty reflects your character.” Samii spoke to me about how your inner beauty is just as important as your outer beauty. She believes that you need to spend time and invest in both. Samii also said that your clothing reflects who you are on the inside. “If you are dressing inappropriately it doesn’t give the right message of who you really are.” Well said, Samii.

Before the makeover, I spent some time with Samii to hear her thoughts on fashion. I wanted to work with her in creating a look from her own wardrobe that would reflect her unique personal style. When chatting with Samii, she shared that some of her style icons were Jennifer Anniston, Reese Witherspoon, and Julia Roberts. She appreciated their simple, yet stylish look. In spending time with Samii it was clear that she loves the natural, classic look. So when going through Samii's closet for her makeover, I pulled a nice structured jacket and paired it with a classic striped top, skinny jeans, and baby doll flats. I accessorized the look with a patterned scarf, some small gold earrings in the shape of a flower, and of course an arm party! I wanted to stay true to Samii's foundation of simple style, but also incorporate some fun accessories to add a youthful touch.

For her make up, I kept it natural. I used neutral brown tones on her eyes and soft pinky browns for her lip and cheek color. Samii has naturally beautiful skin so I applied a thin coat of foundation and set it with a sheer powder. I also used bronzer to define her cheekbones, and add a little warmth.

Also used:  Maybelline “Define A Lash,” Very Black

For her hair, I did loose curls. I wanted to bring a little sophistication to her look, but at the same time keep it fun and playful.

Samii looks beautiful in her new classic chic look!

Photos and story by: Rebekah Miura

Trail Blazer

 

                                                         Blazer I Blouse I Jeans I Flats I Sunglasses I Purse I Earrings 

Wearing a blazer over any top can easily dress it up; especially a blouse. Worn with dark skinnies, it can achieve a sharp and collected look. A colorful shoe, characterized by small details add a playful touch without stepping away from sophistication.

Photos By: Beth Carter Photography

GLAMIFY YOUR HOLIDAYS

Here are some treats that you can use to glamify your or a friend's holiday season. This gift list provides products that can all fit perfectly into a stocking as well as make for cute single gift ideas. So, now there’s no excuse not to have a fabulous gift for Secret Santa and Christmas parties alike. 1.Lip Stick Duo 2. Brush Set 3. Peppermint Lotion 4.Its-a-10: conditioning spray 5. Mini Straightener 6. Snap Happy: Nail Polish

7. Silver Glitter: Nail Polish 8. Starry Eyes: Liquid Eye Shadow

WRAP IT UP for < $25!

Gift giving marks the Christmas holiday. Buying presents for family and friends can quickly add up and get quite expensive. Here are some fashionable finds that are all under $25 that are sure to bring a smile to any recipient!  

1. Sparkle and Shine Bobbi Set

2. iPhone Case

3. Carole Spike Bracelet

4. Xhilaration Pajama Set

5. H&M Cap

6. Dangling Faux Gem Earrings

7. Cashmere Blend Gloves

8. Bow Trouser Sock

Boston Beauty with a Skyline View

My name is Anastasia and I am from Boston, Massachusetts.  I love shopping, reading, meeting new people and being active! What is the craziest thing that I have ever done? Skydiving from an altitude of 14,000 feet! I received my undergraduate degree at Southeastern University in Lakeland, Florida. Attending college has opened up many doors and given me some amazing opportunities. In the summer of 2011, I was chosen to intern for the Department of Defense in Washington D.C. Going to work in the Pentagon everyday was definitely one of the most surreal experiences. I absolutely loved my college experience at Southeastern, which is why I decided to continue on in pursuit of my Masters in Business Administration there as well. I will graduate with my MBA in December of 2013.

My mother worked hard to instill in me an appreciation for modest clothing choices at a young age. Middle school was rough, and thinking back on my middle school experience, I can remember having a difficult time navigating through a desire to fit in with my peers and a genuine curiosity as to the different trends in fashion. While the desire to fit in began do dissipate during high school, it was replaced by an overpowering and increasing desire to truly discover and embrace my own uniqueness and independence.

Looking back on both of my middle school and high school experiences, I can offer two pieces of advice to anyone curious about how to make it through the complicated social politics of middle school and the increasing desire to gain independence during high school:

Tip #1: Your clothes will never make people like you. It is the way that you treat people which will truly shape how others see you and who you will one day become.

Tip #2: In life, it is not about “fitting in.” It is about standing out. And what will truly separate you from everyone else will be your courage to do what is right, determination to make your dreams a reality, and standing firm in your values and beliefs.

It is important to understand that modesty is not only evident in the clothes that we wear, but also in each decision that we make. I mean, that is what life comes down to: a series of decisions. We all mess up.  It is not about being perfect.  It is about learning from our mistakes and the mistakes of others. My boss always tells me “Try. Fail. Learn.” It is that simple.

Being a part of Top Buttons has been an amazing opportunity, and without a doubt one of the best decisions that I have ever made. Let Top Buttons truly be a resource for both fashion and inspiration. Ask questions. Do not just succumb to the definition society assigns you.

Stand out and soar!

Love, Anastasia

My beanie in the photo was made by a friend of mine! Email her if you would like to order for just $12.00! Merutledge_msw@yahoo.com

Photos by: Taylor Flumerfelt

Two Fashionable Friends

Meet Katie and Amelia. Two long-time friends who are very different but share a passion for fashion. One loves dresses and the other loves accessories. Upon meeting Katie and Amelia, I quickly sensed the two were an inseparable pair. Every time I see them, they both are dressed to impress with every detail carefully chosen to create a girly look. Their personalities are different but there is no denying they both have a strong desire to serve the Lord.

Emily: What’s your everyday look? Katie: Since it’s during the school year, I have to wear a uniform everyday of the week. I usually grab a cardigan of my choice and wear my regular accessories, my Michael Kors watch and pearl earrings.

Emily: You love dresses! Tell us about your obsession. Katie: I think I love dresses so much because they are fun and girlie. Half of my closet is dresses! I just love them, especially paired with a great pair of shoes and the right necklace!

Emily: Who has been the most influential person in your life? Katie: I would say my mom. I know it may be cliché to say but she really has! She has taught me the importance of family and walking with Christ. She has always displayed what a Godly wife and mother should be. I hope that one day I can be half of the woman that she is!

Emily: What’s the greatest pressure you may feel from your peers? Katie: I have been blessed to go to a school where I don’t feel peer pressure from my friends to drink or anything like that. We all share similar beliefs and values which is the biggest of blessings. Not to say that I won’t feel pressure in the future but I have amazing friends who love the Lord.

Emily: What is your view of modesty? Katie: I would say my view of modesty is obviously to dress modest but it is more than how you dress. The verse Romans 14:13 talks about how we are not to put any stumbling blocks or obstacles in our brother’s way. By dressing immodestly, I am potentially causing my brother in Christ to sin. I have personally chosen a standard of modesty because I want a boy to respect me, and see me for me and not my body. Purity is a lifestyle; how you act, dress and present yourself. And that is the higher standard I hold myself to!

-----

Emily: Being taller, what challenges do you face when shopping for clothes? Amelia: I am 5'9"! I think what I struggle with most is finding shorts, skirts, jeans and dresses that are actually long enough! I generally will do my best to get a bigger size in some items just to get a little more length. I like to wear tights with dresses, roll up my jeans and find shorts that are appropriate yet fashionable.

Emily: You have five brothers! How has that influenced the way you dress? Amelia: Well, my brothers have definitely shaped my modest views because I will put on an outfit, be ready to walk out the door and if my shorts or dress are questionable, I know I will get a comment from one of them. My friends and I ask them all the time if we look okay and get a boy's opinion. When I was younger I didn't like being the only girl because they never wanted to play barbies, or dress up, but as I'm older I enjoy it more. Its kind of fun being the "princess" of the family.

Emily: Tell us a little bit about your friendship with Katie! Amelia: Katie and I actually became friends in 4th grade when our best friend Ashley moved away. Katie and I became really good friends after that. We really related to each other and got along really well. We could always tell each other anything. And I found that we enjoyed similar things, including fashion. I'm so thankful I have her as a friend that encourages me, and has always been there for me. I'm excited that we get to be a part of Top Buttons together.

Emily: What is a personal goal that you have set for yourself? Amelia: I run cross country and I absolutely love it. I ran a half marathon last year and one of my next goals is to run another in February. I also set a high goal of doing my best in my school work.

Interview by: Emily Meade Photos by: Aimee Reed

Which Bootie Would You Wear?

Not only are boots the highlight of the fall and winter months, but booties can be worn to give a little lift on a dreary day. They can be worn with either a great pair of skinny jeans or a cute dress and tights. Here are a few of our favorites. Which do you like the best? Hailey Jeans Co Lace-up Wedge Bootie, Zippered Booties, Material Girl Rachel Shooties, Arizona Abbey Flat Ankle Boot, Qupid Suede Lace-up Bootie

Beauty Video Tutorial: Real Red Lips

We know it's not quite Wednesday yet, but we wanted to show you this video that Kayla made a day early!  Enjoy!

Whitening Products: Crest 3D White Glamorous White Toothpaste, Crest 3D White Multi-Care Whitening Rinse

Kayla used these products in the following order to achieve her Real Red Lips: Revlon ColorStay Ultimate Liquid Lipstick, Top Tomato, Revlon Super Lustrous - Creme Lipstick, Love That Red, Beautique Real Red lip pencil, Mary Kay NouriShine Plus lip gloss

A College Senior With a Heart of Gold

My name is Taylor, and I am a born and raised Florida girl. I am currently in my senior year of college, majoring in journalism/public relations. I love photography, shopping and anything crafty. I am planning to earn my master’s degree in public relations and eventually start my own event planning business. Most excitingly, I just got engaged to the love of my life, Casey, who is a youth and worship pastor in Oklahoma. I became a part of Top Buttons because I have a passion for seeing young girls become women who are rooted in Jesus Christ, and beautiful through and through. To me, modesty is about honoring God’s workmanship. He created us in His image, which is worthy of respect and reverence.

I know too many ladies who try to create beauty through their clothing choices. But, 1 Peter 3:4 commands us to let beauty, the type of beauty that is pleasing to God and will never fade, emanate from within.

I believe as daughters of the King it is our responsibility to remind each other that we are representatives of the God we serve and that we do not need to show skin to be viewed as pretty because He already sees us as masterpieces.

I want you and girls everywhere to know that dressing modestly will attract the true man of God who loves you for who you are, not for the amount of leg you show.

Next time you are in the dressing room and battling whether to purchase something, ask yourself if you would like your future husband looking at another female in that same item of clothing.

Ladies, you are valuable. I challenge you to not let the way you dress hinder you from completing the good works God ordained long ago for you to do and living a life that is worthy of His calling.

Love,

Taylor

Photo Credit: Tiffany Ellis Media

Beat The Rush: Black Friday Deals

My Black Friday planning began this morning at 6:30 am when the ads arrived on my Aunt's doorstep! We quickly scanned the ads for things that we had in mind for gifts for family and friends, and then of course planned our map and spreadsheet for where and when we would arrive at each location.  

The most important part about Black Friday shopping is making a plan. When making my plan, I like to look at the ads with low prices on items that I have kept myself from buying during the year, and things I might wear for the winter season. This year, I will share with you my favorite picks for makeup, clothing, and shoes that you can find at low-budget prices!

Xhilaration Juniors Sequin Fleece Top-Assorted Colors- Featured Above: "Rust" $10.00 (Find at Target: Opens at 9pm on 11/22)

Decree Radiant Metallic Skinny Jeans- Featured Above "Mint" $15.00 (Find at JCPenny: Opens at 6am 11/23)

SO Tall Boots Juniors- Featured Above in Brown $19.99 (Find at KOHLS- Opens at Midnight on 11/23)

bareMinerals Glow Getters Radiant Trio & Dazzling Eye Trio $10.00 each (Find at ULTA Beauty- Opens at Midnight on 11/23)

These are just a few of the items that I will be purchasing tonight/tomorrow! If you would like to be a Black Friday Fashionista but don't want to wake up early, I will link some of my favorite websites and ads below for easy online Black Friday Shopping!

Old Navy Use Coupon Code TURKEYDAY for online check out.

Forever21 

Gap

J.Crew 

Happy Thanksgiving and Happy Black Friday!

Beauty Wednesday: Bold Brows

Eyebrows can be a trivial subject for most girls. To wax or not to wax?

What are eyebrow pencils anyways?

Can grooming my brows actually show case my eyes?

What are bold brows?

Where do I even begin?

These questions can haunt us in a world where the options are limitless and the products vast. Fear not, your soon to be bold brows! Plenty of products and techniques exist that can assist you on your journey to bold brows. So don't envy other women's brows; create your own by getting to know your brows. Your first step in your new found relationship with your eyebrows begins with identifying  your eyebrow shape and size.

My brows are a mixture between Hi - Lo Brows and High Arched Brows. My size is rather normal; not too thick or thin.

After identifying your eyebrows, notice that your options become more narrowed when it comes to products and styling. Second step closer to bold brows is picking your products.

Personally, some of my favorite products to use on my brows are Beautique's eyebrow pencil in soft black and Maybelline's Great Lash clear mascara . 

Use the eye brow pencil to define your brow shade and brush them together neatly. My eyebrows are black. Applying clear mascara will help to keep your brow hairs in place.

Now that you've gotten to know your brows a little better you'll notice the great thing about your brows is showing off your eyes. Eyebrows frame the eyes so don't forget to give them a little attention during your daily beauty routine!

Now you are all set to empower your brows to be bold!

-Kayla Danielle

Photos and Story by Kayla Danielle

Trending Tuesday: Crossbody Love

As the Christmas season quickly approaches, there is no doubt that we will be rushing around making last minute gift purchases. What better way to shop than with a crossbody! As you tote all your shopping bags around from store to store, the furthest thing from your mind should be where the most important bag is. Keep your cash and cards close with one of these stylish picks. Oh, and happy shopping! 1. Mossimo Supply Co, Black Mable Crossbody

2. Nicole by Nicole Miller Ava Crossbody

3. American Rag Mini Crossbody

4. Rachel Rachael Roy Small Crossbody

5. H&M Bag

6. AEO Pushlock Crossbody Bag 

Written by: Emily Meade Photo Collage by: Kayla Danielle

A Leading Lady

Meet Casey. She is an Inspirational Writer, Pinterest Addict, Runner, Coffee Drinker and Lover of All Things Africa (Especially her missionary boyfriend who is currently serving in Guinea!).

In a world where beauty is defined by sex, skin and short inseams, the idea of having higher standards for ourselves seems useless and becomes depressing. Blending in is much easier, right? When we blend in, we avoid questions, dirty looks and awkward moments. As a girl who has chosen standards over skin, I can promise you that IT IS WORTH IT!

Have you heard the term “A Leading Lady?” A Leading Lady is defined as the actress that plays the leading female role in a movie. Charles Dickens described one of his characters as a leading lady, giving her attributes of distinction such as elegance, grace, and beauty. If your life was a script, how would you want it to play out? Would you be the Leading Lady, standing out among her peers, exuberating style, grace and classiness? Or would you play a much smaller part, blending in the background, labeled as “the girl in the restaurant” or “dancer #5” when the credits rolled at the end?

The truth is our life is a script - one where we choose the lines that it holds. The reputation you set now as the Leading Lady in your story will follow you long down the road. Every choice you make, right down to the clothes you wear and the activities you participate in contribute to your lifelong script. What kind of standard will you set for yourself?

Let me encourage you with a few tips on being classy:

1) Your character is your greatest accessory. Integrity, confidence, honesty, and self-worth are the most beautiful jewels a lady can wear.

2) Let compassion be your cloak. There is nothing more attractive than a lady who is covered in love.

3) Those who stand out are the ones most remembered. Find your own style and express it boldly.

Now go write your script!

Xo,

Casey

Photo Credit: http://www.thewaywewerephotography.com/

MOTS: Russia Meets Rockford

Autumn to me is all about mixing, matching, and just having fun. I love throwing on a sweater over my favorite summer dress, putting on some warm leggings, and wearing my favorite boots. It makes me feel beautiful and comfortable at the same time.

Clothing makes a statement about who I am – about who I want to be. It is a way for me to show the rest of the world how I want to be perceived.

Dress the way you want to be addressed.

In Russia we have a saying “People greet you by your clothing.” That is so true; not just in my culture but in every place.

Have you ever gotten to a point where you wanted to do something, but you were too afraid? It’s the same thing with clothing. It can either be a hit or a miss, but you never know until you try.  So why not try?

When I first meet someone I already have an impression of who they are just by the way they are dressed. Clothing is more then just what I wear; it shows those around me how I view myself, who I believe I AM, and how much worth and value I believe I have. Whether we want to believe it or not, people are still going to make assumptions about who we portray ourselves to be through our clothing. I ask myself daily “Who do I represent through my outfit? What does it say about me, my values, and my standards?”

Sometimes I get lost in what fashion and beauty is. Clothing is something that should be enjoyed. It is meant to make me feel graceful and confident in my own skin. I realize that so many girls now a days forget how much their clothing represents their worth. So think about what you wear. From one girl to another, find the clothing that makes you feel vibrant, alive, and gives not only you but also everyone else a glimpse into your values and your standards.

Love ya,

Liza

A Varsity Cheerleader with a Chic Style

Meet Ahna. Your girl-next-door sweetheart who cherishes her family and loves to cheer.  When I first met Ahna, the first thing that I noticed was her radiant smile and warm personality. I was excited to get to know her more and hear about her dreams and ambitions. Ahna is the epitome of what a young lady should be and she is sure to be a wonderful role model within her community.

Emily: How would you describe your style? Ahna: I think for the most part I have a classy style that is feminine and chic. I gain a lot of inspiration from things I see. I sometimes overdress but it's better to be overdressed than underdressed!

Emily: Your hair always looks so nice. What are some of your favorite products? Ahna: I like to curl my hair, but I mainly straighten it. When I do either, I use Tresemme heat protector then Paul Mitchell gloss drops. I love both.

Emily: What is your favorite holiday and how does your family celebrate it? Ahna: It would probably be Christmas. I love being at home and decorating the house with the family. We are usually really busy during the holiday season with shopping. And one of my favorite traditions is enjoying monkey bread. My dad gets up early on Christmas Day to bake it since it takes so long.

Emily: What do you like to do in your free time? Ahna: Right now cheerleading takes up pretty much most of my schedule besides school. Between practice, cheering at games and tumbling, I am so busy! But during my downtime, I enjoy hanging out with friends and family.

Emily: If there was one place you could travel to, where would you go? Ahna: I have never been out of the country! I would honestly want to go to anywhere in Europe, but I'd probably choose Italy. I think it would be so fun to visit the famous places and landmarks that are in that country.

Emily: What's your dream job? Ahna: Working for Seventeen magazine!

Emily: What is the greatest piece of advice you've ever gotten? Ahna: Something my dad says before school everyday is, "Don't be good, be great." So I strive to do the best of my ability in everything I do!

Emily: Is there a person in your life who has influenced you the most? Ahna: Someone who has been in my life for a long time as a friend and babysitter when I was younger is Talor Blackburn. She's someone who has gone to a public school and has stayed true to herself and true to God. She has truly been an inspiration to me spiritually as well. She has encouraged me to be consistent in my relationship with the Lord and has given me great advice in regards to my friendships.

Emily: Why do you want to be apart of Top Buttons? Ahna: My parents raised me to dress modestly but fashionably. I want to inspire other girls so they can also do the same. Fashion has always been something that has been "my thing." I've always looked up to certain style icons and have wanted to do something that has to do with fashion. I think the Lord knew my desire and has blessed me to be a part of Top Buttons.

Emily: Do you think that modesty is more that just how you dress? Ahna: Absolutely. My cheer coach is reading Fashion by Faith to us as a team. It's the story of a Christian model who wasn't following through with everything she believed in as she modeled for the secular world. It's shown me that modesty is about living above reproach and helping our brothers in Christ not to stumble. As young ladies, it's something God has called us to do. It's better to be known for modesty than to be known as someone who wants attention from guys for the wrong reasons.

Emily: Why is modesty important to you? Ahna: Modesty is important to me because of my biblical perspectives and how I was raised to respect myself. In return, I can expect respect from others by what I wear. I never want to be mistaken for someone I'm not by the way I portray myself. Dressing modest and classy is a part of me and how I want others to view me.

Interview by Emily Meade Photos by Kayla Danielle

Beauty Wednesday: The End of Split Ends

Color treated and heat damaged hair has never failed to produce unmanageability, dryness and most importantly split ends. Personally, as a hair and beauty enthusiast, I love to style with heat and experiment with products. Some of my friends like to call me their expert without a license, but one of the largest issues that I've run into with using heat and color on my hair is the damage that it leaves behind over time. Split ends are hard to defeat, heal or even avoid. Luckily, after spending years coloring and cutting my hair, I have discovered three products and three rules that have protected, restored and/or healed my hair from damage.

Rule 1#:

When straightening, section your hair off and only straighten each section once

(this way you avoid exposing your hair to extreme heat multiple times in one sitting).

Rule 2#:

When conditioning, always leave in conditioner for a minimum of 3 minutes before washing

(this lets the moisture soak in to your hair allowing proteins to be deposited).

Rule 3#

Have the ends of your hair trimmed professionally at the very least every 6-12 weeks

(this ensures that your dead ends are put to rest).

Must Have Products to Help End Split Ends:

Its-a-10 Miracle Shampoo plus Keratin, Aussie 3 minute Miracle Deeep Conditioner, Argan Hot Oil Self Heating Hair Treatment

Follow these simple rules and expect great results!

- Kayla Danielle

Written and Photos by: Kayla Danielle

Trending Tuesday: A Studded Obsession

While studs were once strictly reserved for the grunge or gothic look, they have now made their debute on the scene tailored for every style. From studded loafers for the prep to a studded shoulder bag for the fashionista, these shiny little details with a tough edge are suited for anyone looking to add a little bling to any look. Pair this amazing leather jacket with red jeans for a bold look or make a statement with these fabulous studded pumps with a LBD. Rule of thumb: stick to one studded piece per outfit. Otherwise, it's a little too much. Happy Studded Tuesday!

1. Topshop Studded Faux Leather Biker Jacket

2. ASOS Paris Studded Pointed High Heels

3. BKE Studded Gem Belt

4. Brandy Melville Stud Shoulder Bag

5. Forever 21 Studded Combat Boot

6. Steve Madden Studlyy

7. Deena & Ozzy Heavy Studded Backpack